Cleveland Browns quarterback Vinny Testaverde has a sore right throwing shoulder, but says the condition won't hinder him if he starts tomorrow's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Cleveland Stadium.

Testaverde has been in a quarterback controversy with rookie Eric Zeier, who had a 1-3 record in the Browns' past four games. Testaverde replaced Zeier in the second half of the Browns' 31-20 loss to the Green Bay Packers last Sunday, completing 16 of 22 passes for 244 yards and two touchdowns.

Cleveland coach Bill Belichick hinted yesterday he might not decide on a starter until game time. The shoulder is the same one Testaverde separated in 1993 against the Steelers.

"I don't expect it to be a problem come Sunday," Testaverde said yesterday. "It feels good and with a day and a half of rest, it will be fine."

Testaverde said he had back spasms Wednesday and tried to compensate by throwing harder in practice. Testaverde reported some swelling in the shoulder Thursday and missed practice.

He went through a light workout with the team yesterday, and only meetings are scheduled for today.

The Browns have listed Testaverde as questionable.

"It's the same thing a pitcher gets or any other quarterback in the NFL," said Testaverde. "You just get treatment and take some time off as a precautionary measure."